Still Underrated In So Many Ways...
J.M. | 10/01/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I purchased Frank John Hadley's "Guide to the Blues On CD" a while back and was shocked to see how poorly he treated Buddy Guy's oeuvre. I can't tell you how inaccurately he characterized Guy's Vanguard recordings, particularly this one. Hold That Plane! has aged just fine, and is superior to most of the blues records that were released around the same time. But for some reason it remains a neglected gem.
In my opinion, Guy is at his best with slow blues, which is what comprises most of this album. The title cut is right up there with songs like "One Room Country Shack" and "A Man and His Blues". In addition to composing a more jazzed up version of "My Time After Awhile" Guy also manages to put a unique and enjoyable spin on the Muddy Waters classic "I'm Ready". Another standout is "You Don't Love Me" a smooth soul-blues cut reminiscent of the Chess years.
Perhaps Hadley wasn't quite sure what to make of this Guy record (I'm a little tempted to believe that he didn't actually listen to it). It's a bit of a departure--more subdued and soulful as a whole. Nevertheless, I can't see how any genuine blues lover can dislike Hold That Plane! Do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You won't be disappointed."
AN EXCELLENT BUDDY
Ronnie Cowlishaw Sr. | AUBURN WASHINGTON | 03/10/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is rated poor I don't know why, it's a great cd. It is very well produced. I have about 30 of his cd's, this is one of my favorites of his older music. This is classic Buddy it has the guitar we all love, and his vocals are just what we would expect to hear. The songs are all great, the only problem I can see is the cd is to short. In my opinion this is well worth buying."